Just getting started?

It’s not always easy coming to terms with contact lens use, although it’s considerably easier than it used to be with the old hard lenses. And if you’re finding it hard work, don’t worry and keep persevering. Remember, the upside is much better than the down-side. Nonetheless, we have a few tips for starters (and a few reminders for some of you others).

Do’s

• Make sure you understand your eye care practitioner’s instructions carefully – make them write them out if necessary. Make sure you are conversant with all the relevant cleaning routines.
• Always get your contact lens prescription from your optician after an eye test. It’s not their’s, it’s your’s. If you don’t get it, you will be unable to make purchases elsewhere if you need to in an emergency.
• Get yourself into a good routine with your contact lenses. Always start with the right or left lens (your decision). That way you are much less likely to mix up your left and right eyes - even when you feel under the weather you have a much better chance of success.
• Always wash your hands (ideally with hand cleanser) before putting lenses in and taking them out (see hygiene guidance >>).
• Keep your contact lens case clean by washing out regularly. Never keep a contact lens case for longer than 3 months. They come free with most good contact lens solutions so you have no excuse.
• If you are not a daily wearer, keep an emergency lens case and travel solution to hand. Especially if you tend to go to sleep and wake up in strange places. That’s what handbags and man bags were made for!
• If you travel a lot, make sure you keep a copy of your prescription in your wallet. That way if you run out you can buy some and not have to re-use lenses beyond their intended schedule.
• Always take your lenses out when you sleep (unless you have the specific contact lenses designed for sleeping in).
• If you are worried by any symptoms, go straight to your optician’s. That’s what they are there for!

Don’ts

• Never try contact lenses unless you have had them fitted by a qualified contact lens optician or optometrist. You risk damaging your eyes. So don’t pick up your flatmate’s lenses just to see what they’re like! Don’t borrow lenses or lend them.
• Don’t exceed your usage guidance on any lenses. You may save a few pounds but you are risking your eyesight. If the contact lens is a daily, throw it away at the end of the day.
• Don’t cut corners – particularly with hygiene.
• Don’t share contact lens cases.

Putting your contact lenses in

• Use a clear mirror in a brightly lit place
• If you are working over a sink, put the plug in!
• Make sure you have everything ready and to hand.
• Wash your hands thoroughly, ideally with hand wash (preferably non-moisturising).
• Take out your contact lens – make sure it is not inside out. The upper section should curve inwards, not outwards.
• Place your lens on the index finger of your dominant hand. Put your other arm around the back of your head and use your middle finger to pull up the upper eye-lid. Use your middle finger to pull down the lower eyelid and place the contact lens onto the lower part of your eye, while looking upwards.
• Blink several times, roll your eyes to help centre the contact lens.
• If you have any bubbles, close your eye and rub the eyelid to release the bubbles

Removing your contact lenses

• Use a clear mirror in a brightly lit place.
• If you are working over a sink, put the plug in!
• Make sure you have all your cleaning equipment ready.
• Wash your hands thoroughly, ideally with hand wash.
• Pull down your eye lid with your middle finger and look upwards.
• Hold the contact lens between thumb and forefinger and remove.
• If you are wearing a daily contact, throw away!
• If you are wearing a weekly, monthly or extended wear lens, start your cleaning routine now!

Cleaning your contact lenses

Make sure you completely understand your instructions from your eye care specialist. When you receive your new contact lenses, ask for a written description of the proposed cleaning solutions and the way to do it properly and safely.

WARNING: It is very important you use the correct solutions. Improper usage can damage your eyes! Find out more about contact lens solutions.

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